Rippa would take his time ascending the steps up the mountain. Not caring too much at first for being the first to arrive. He was rather new to his office and rumors of all the other Kage spoke of power, experience and perceptive minds. Where as he was at best benevolent in his mind. Choosing personally to see the good in everything he could. Progressing with the ideal in mind that the world would not be pushed aside by the cruel. Refusing to be snuffed out by the evil and greedy people that would target his village for its wealth. Still he had heard a great deal about each of them. Karumo was an indomitable man. To any that might challenge him he could bring them to their knee's with a shift of his gaze. The details of how were fuzzy but still it was impressive. Hastur on the other hand was rumored to be a walking storm. To be so ready to destroy anything that might pose a threat. Rippa wondered what had happened to the man if rumors were true that he would readily mass murder anyone who might pose a threat. Still it was just rumors and he would make his own assessment. As for the last of them everyone in the world knew her name. Rumored as the strongest shinobi currently in the world. The winter spirit of Kiri. Her power to thrust as she saw fit could freeze the whole mountain. Or at least that was what people believed her capable of. A legend.

Yet here he was. Well rounded as his abilities were he doubted any of them had really ever even heard of him. He hadn't been truly tested as a Hokage yet. Aside from that his power felt like it waned in comparison to theirs. Perhaps at least he would have one part of him that could impress. At a range of eighty meters he was truly dangerous. His capabilities as an archer were something else entirely. Perhaps they might even admire a sniper of his quality. With any luck Hastur even had a report from Zix about Rippa having helped teach him Ninjutsu. Extending a helping hand to their jounin during a time of turmoil just before he made Hokage. Still he would steady his breath and calm his mind. Thinking back to how he ended up on these steps. He had been risen from bed in the early morning by a messenger that had easily located him as he was at an inn close to the location they were to meet at. Rumors of him being there spread quickly as his eight guards were there too. However as the message had been a kind invite he hadn't wished to come across as defensive or afraid. So he had them escort him to the bottom of the steps leading to the meeting point and left them there to busy themselves. Sending one of them to go buy a jar of sake for all of them.

Now Rippa stood on the steps a long way up. The air was thinner here but he was already adjusting his breathing. Fully aware of the medical risks if he didn't accustom his body to it. He was wearing dark slacks with a white belt holding eight bolt heads on it. Known as his prayers. Lined up as ammunition for him if he needed them. Tucked into his pants was a zip up vest with a tall neck hanging about his broad chin with the zipper undone to his chest. Over his shirt was his long red coat with the konoha headband stitched into each shoulder. The long leather coat had the faded symbols for captain on the back. However those symbols were more difficult to see due to the exotic weapons strapped over his shoulders to form an X on his back. Red cloth was wrapped tightly around the curved hilts of what appeared to be twin katana into slightly broader sheaths than normal. The hilt and something round with six chambers as well as a lever, a trigger and a pull back hammer were visible while the blade and the bow barrel was hidden. Deeply seated into black bamboo sheaths each marked differently in red letters in the center. One called adam and the other called Eve. His legendary twin crossbow katana. Still his boots carried him up the steps as the wind caught his shoulder length snow white hair lightly. His blue eyes looking up the mountain. Just a little ways to go.

He supposed he should stop pushing this off. It would take him another thirty minutes just walking up the steps. So he would inhale deeply and step hard on the step. Careful to disperse his weight as he did so as not to damage the step. Like a bolt of red lightning his weight suddenly launched up the steps. His blue eyes measuring each landing spot for a new burst launching step. Within only a couple of minutes he was at the top. Landing on the arrival platform with some grace. He supposed he could have flown but he didn't want to activate chakra so close to a Kage summit. Still he strode in with his eyes looking about in awe until Hastur spoke. His eyes drawing to the fine dressed man. He finished his speech as Rippa noted the well armed servants. Perhaps he could have brought his own. Still his eyes were drawn to Hastur as he stood tall. Around the same height as Rippa with a surprisingly thinner frame. Rippa would note that but he also noted the mark of an archer. He immediately felt disappointed. If the might hastur was an archer as well Rippa truly brought nothing to this table that wasn't surpassed. Still Rippa would smile and bow his head as he had been the first to arrive. Making room for anyone arriving after him before speaking cautiously.

"I do thank you for your welcome. As for your thoughts before, I feel all life is to be valued. Due process should be considered before ending a life. Only if another life has been threatened or taken should a death sentence be carried forth. There are those who murder for pleasure and are nothing more than monsters, and there are those who kill because they know no other way. A soul can be saved until the breath is taken from them for the last time." .

1086

Dammit Lord Tsuchikage where are you? This thought was the only one that ran through his head since Harichimo had arrived at the exams with his squad, some unaligned shinobi, and willing volunteer refugees who would fly the flag of Iwagakure on the chuunin exams without the Tsuchikage. Some of the participants showed promise from the few events he could watch. For the most part he had been bombarded with all of the obstacles and paperwork that were meant for the Tsuchikage to take care of or make decisions about. Harichimo was trying to do the best he could for the honor of Iwagakure and for the well being of those who gladly chose to follow behind him to Kumogakure. He hoped for the duration of hi stay that he was making the right choices, choices that Karumo would have made with his more veteran status in diplomatic and political games, and choices that his sensei Akira Kazako would have smiled upon in regards to being tossed into the deep end and trying to swim back to the surface for air.

Harichimo was stationed in the VIP box designated for the normal Iwagakure elite. His Monolith Status proving to be more then just fancy words as he sat with high ranking members of the village listening to them drink themselves into a stupor as the genin below fought to prove themselves against traps and creatures the likes they have never seen. Harichimo had kept quiet for the most part and would glance over to the seat designated for the Tsuchikage hoping to see the form of Karumo appear out of thin air and congratulate him for taking care of as much as he did. But it seemed fate was taking the wind from his sails and further into the storm. A genin below had outsmarted the proctors of a trial and was now making their escape as the VIP box exploded with hoots and howls at the stealthy and resourceful individual.

It was then that Harichimo was tapped on the shoulder with something light. He looked over his shoulder to see a Kumogakure shinobi holding out a scroll for him with very fancy decoration and appearance. Harichimo would get up and take hold of the scroll and would read it over. "So there has been absolutely no sign of him? Thank you for your time I guess I will have to be off." Harichimo would begrudgingly say as the Kumo shinobi would turn to let him pass and exit out the box. Another shinobi was standing outside and would point towards what seemed to be a temple of sorts out across some bridge with stairs that seemed to want to extend to the heavens. Harichimo started the walk to the destination with his white dress shirt with his Monolith knuckle duster poking out from a breast pocket, black pants with matching shoes, and his Monolith coat with the gold trimmings and his titan name embroidered in the back with the same gold material. His shoulder length brown hair catching all of the wind. It was the most dressed up and important looking clothes he could assemble together.


It wasn't long until he was met with the towering staircase which lead to a magnificent structure that to him rivaled the architecture of Iwagakure. He was probably the last to arrive and with a hurried stride he would try to skip every other step to make up for holding everyone else up. Each step made his mind wonder What kind of business do I even have here? The most powerful people in the shinobi world and I am supposed to talk in and represent my village like I do it daily. With the culmination of these thought and the ever thinning air from climbing high to the temple it was hard but he could manage to bring himself to a more stable state of being as he reached the entrance where guards stood. He presented his scroll and with very militaristic movements the guards would usher him to enter.

He would enter the chamber and it would take all he had not to stay silent and give a bow to the three kage as he introduced himself. "Greetings everyone. It is a great honor to join you all today. My name his Harichimo Kazako, Captian of the Iwagakure Monolith special division. I will be standing in for the Tsuchikage." He would stand back up as a servant offered him a drink which he would take as the Raikage made his introduction and greeted them to the council at hand. Harichimo had to carry himself as he thought Karumo would with his usual grace and wit. He would have to discuss trade and relations with these more seasoned shinobi who seemed to have ages of experience over him. Except for Hastur who only recently took power and made his little display within his villages borders. He wanted to keep an eye on him. That little lightning show was a grand display from where he stood on the ground that day but now he stood face to face with the man. His actions during this council would be his way of determining who this man that needed to show off his power really was. It was an issue he wanted to discuss but it was a point that seemed to hold as much merit as a grain of dust in an old room compared to village relations and the recent events that lead to the destruction of Sunagakure and the displacement of thousands from their homes and way of life. It weighed heavy on him to also make sure that these people who now chose to find refuge in the mountain village to get the best deal out of it while these Kage try to get what they can scrape from each other. Sunagakure may not have been the nicest place to him in the past but the people he had met and shepard for the exams didn't deserve to lose everything.

1010

Darkness surrounded the man as he felt the sensations around him, the warmth of the water on his skin and the smells of the breeze that gently blew through the village. It appeared to have a hint of lavender, a calming scent that he had noticed that the people of the Monkey Clans seemed to enjoy. It was a nice touch to make a restful place even more so. There was music coming from nearby to make the entire scene even more serene, the panpipes always an instrument that the man enjoyed to hear as he relaxed. Nothing could possibly ruin this moment for him, and as he lay beneath the falling waters that poured forth from the statue of kings, he was fairly sure that that thought was accurate. Unfortunately such perfect moments were not meant to last and there was always something that had to interrupt them, and in this case it was one that he had become all too familiar with.

“Lord Sarutobi...the time has come. You need to prepare.” The voice, of course, belonged to the Monkey King Eizo, and it was one that he knew better than almost anyone else. His eyes opened slowly and he began to take in the sights in front of him. It was an odd thing to not see Eizo wearing his armour, but Mitsuo had insisted that it would give the wrong impression, as the two of them came in peace. They had no intention of causing any harm or threatening anyone at the assembly that they had intercepted a message about. They were simply going there to judge the state of the four remaining nations and too meet Hastur, the newest of the Kage, and Karumo, the replacement for Tsuyo in Iwa. Mitsuo was curious to see what kind of people the two of them were, and if there was any reason to believe that either would inhibit his plan to heal the world.

He dressed in a set of robes that were white and trimmed with gold flames and blue roses, reminiscent of his Kage cloak but much more grand. They had the kanji Kensei written upon the back, and would be enough to turn the head of anyone with their excess. Upon his head was a simple Do’un, though around the brim were gold roses with sapphire accents that dangled in front of his face and all around his head. He was a striking image, but even with that he was nothing compared to the Monkey King standing beside him. Eizo had dawned an entirely ceremonial set of armour, something that would be completely impractical to enter a fight with, but was absolutely gorgeous. The plates of his armour were completely gold, edged in onyx for a tremendous contrast. Rubys studded his chestplate, eyes set within the face of a monkey. He wore no helm, but upon his shoulders was a beautiful cloak made of blood red wool and lined with gold silk, clasped in place with roses made of sapphire. It truly was a sight to behold. He did not have his trademark staff, as Mitsuo had sealed it away with his own weapons.

Eizo stepped towards Mitsuo and put a hand on his shoulder. “You know, Mitsuo, there is always the chance that they will not like what you have to say. While you may have been just in your cause, what you did was commit an atrocity in the eyes of the majority. Four of the most powerful people on the planet will be your judges today, and if they find you guilty it will be you upon whom justice is passed.” The Sword Saint smiled a reassuring smile, that crooked half smile that he had become so famous for, and shook his head.

“Eizo, my friend; you worry too much. The ends justified the means, and I have brought the world one step closer towards utopia. The kage are smart people, and they understand that the world is sick, and that sometimes extreme measures must be taken to cut out disease from the hearts of man. I am no tyrant, nor am I a hero. If anything I am simply a man doing his duty to the world.” With these words Eizo frowned and he and Mitsuo focused their chakra, disappearing from the land of the Monkeys and instantly materializing in Kumogakure, just outside of the meeting place as the fourth dignitary arrived.

Mitsuo heard the words of a man who commanded a room as though he were a god, and he knew instantly who this must be. As Hastur spoke, Mitsuo was inclined to listen to his words about how each life was precious and his analogy that followed, as well as the assembled kages’ responses to this. The first was Rippa, the man whom Mitsuo had found to be a suitable replacement for him in Konohagakure and someone whom he had put a lot of trust into. His words showed his inexperience, but also his immense drive and passion and Mitsuo was proud, still, of his choice. The second was an old friend, the Mizukage, Ayakashi. She did not respond to the words of Hastur, but instead spoke of the obvious. He had always appreciated the fact that she was a very straight forward person, and someone whom he could always count on to say exactly what needed to be said. The final voice was out of place amidst a room of giants. This person revealed himself to be one of the Monoliths of Iwa, one of their several ANBU divisions, and proceeded to give his name, which was something that Mitsuo found curious. ANBU generally used aliases, and he would have never revealed his true identity to anyone when he was a member of the ANBU in Konoha. He wondered if Iwa was more lax in their practices.

As the four of them had completed their exchanges, Mitsuo nodded to Eizo and the two of them made their entrance into the area, Eizo’s cloak and Mitsuo’s robes flowing behind them as they approached. He looked around and got his first look at Hastur, and he was not disappointed. He was a man who clearly took himself as seriously as it sounded he did, and he radiated dignity and grace at almost a divine level. It was impressive to meet another shinobi who commanded his power in such a way, and it reminded him of the man whom he considered to be his brother, Tsuyo Hyuga. Mitsuo and Eizo both bowed and stopped, looking towards the empty seat that appeared to be left for Suna and choosing to stand instead.

“Esteemed Kage...and others. It is a rare pleasure to be in the presence of such power, and it is one that I feel honored to have been able to experience more than once in my life. I come to this place in order to make my voice heard, and to share with you all something that we all know all to well; this world is sick. It is plagued with a deep seeded corruption that threatens to devour any and all whom come into contact with it. My brothers and sisters and I have long sought one thing, and that is to rid this world of crime and corruption so that we can lead it into a peaceful Utopia. Life is a precious and beautiful thing, and the lives of the innocent are things to be protected and nurtured...but those lives can so quickly be wrapped up in the darkness of this world, and we must do all that we can to insure that said darkness is expunged so that it cannot corrupt further...” Eizo looked at Mitsuo and then towards the others assembled in front of him, unease surrounded him where Mitsuo was so sure. The two of them were in the lion’s den now, and Eizo feared the worst...

1328

(I will keep track of my chakra for having Eizo summoned for this thread, and will pay for the summoning jutsu as well.)

Chakra 395/420

Rippa would remain calm as Hastur addressed him in return. A simple mention of the two of them being at an impasse. It would bring a frown but a nod to him all the same. He had hoped the man was not the harsh being the rest of the rumors told him to be. Still despite their differences Rippa would remain respectful. He knew coming in not everyone would share an opinion like his own. He had struggled to hold onto it and refused to let the world darken his soul. It was a morbid place truly but he didn't mind it much. Simply because it was also filled with beautiful things. Still he would feel a little resigned about Hastur. Such a potent man could have been a shining light in the darkness. Perhaps in some way he still was. Rippa reminded himself just because their views were different did not mean Hastur did not have another kind of light. The fire burned within the man to improve the world. That much could not be denied. Rippa could only hope though that the fire the man had in his soul would be a controlled one. Rippa did not want to have to rise up in a defense of the innocent should they get caught in the inferno. He felt like he couldn't last on his own. Like the tide would just be too overwhelming if he stood alone against Hastur in the end.

However a cold wind shifted passed him as Ayakashi made her grand entrance. The woman was quick to slide in through the air and land with a grace only she seemed to hold. The cold though toned down that she brought with her was just enough to break his thoughts from his worries. She rose to her feet and spoke a simple greeting to which he nodded his head respectfully in return to before he noticed something. An ally of Konoha now stood in the room with him and he felt like the pressure from Hastur was now cut in half. Perhaps it was all in his mind but he knew one thing. If the world fell to fire and brimstone, if the skies darkened and the sea's boiled he would not stand alone. He would stand at her side. With just her near him it felt like even Hastur was only a small issue in the future. One that he could not have handled on his own in a hundred years but with her next to him they could keep managed. Hastur however despite his reputation and nature seemed calmer than he may have expected. Perhaps it wouldn't be him that brought down pain upon the world for his ideals. Perhaps Rippa was just being a little paranoid due to him being nervous. The lesser power in the room.

However as if to ease that thought from his mind another would arrive closer behind him. Allowing Rippa to turn to keep them all in his view. The boy introduced himself as captain of a division famous within Iwagakure. The monoliths were quickly growing in reputation along side the legendary seven swords. If he was captain of them he was likely capable. Still that he would be speaking in place of the Tsuchikage was already of concern. Was the man ill? Still he couldn't feel any sense of pressure from this man. If anything it was like the other two were drowning him out while Rippa simply smiled. Holding out his hand to shake the mans hand. It took a lot of spirit to be the envoy of a country. Especially when addressing world powers. He had a pair on him. Still he had a sort of warmth about him that Rippa recognized. Another med nin? He had the bandages along his arms for it. Still he would shake the mans hand if he allowed it. Making way after for a pair to enter next he had not expected. At least he could tell others when he came home that he had shaken hands with a monolith.

Still he had not expected Mitsuo to come forth nor with his summon. It was completely unexpected. His blue eyes watched the man in silence as he nodded to him. What was he doing here? Something rang in the back of his mind. Ayakashi had mentioned waiting for a representative of Sunagakure. There had been rumors and refugees but he hadn't suspected that Mitsuo had anything to do with it. Mitsuo would claim the floor as he stood in his eye enchanting robes. Speaking his piece about how his brothers and sisters had long tried for the impossible. He sounded like he was defending something. Could he be the source of the destruction of Sunagakure? The refugees alone were taking up a great deal of resources. They had not been able to send scouts into Suna to assess the threat yet. However Rippa wondered just how far the man would go. Was it beyond the great sword saint to burn a whole village and force out its occupants? Few who viewed the world as plagued would not sacrifice it to bring room for a new one. He wondered for the first time if Mitsuo might do the same to Konoha. To all the nations.

Rippa would turn as he listened to Hastur's reply. He seemed so cold and callous about the whole ordeal. Speaking ill of the man that had done so much for the world. Rippa was torn at that moment. Mitsuo was a hero and yet he questioned the mans actions for the first time. He wasn't sure how to respond or act as Hastur continued. However there was a cold anger there. Anger for those who suffered. Anger for his hero being called such things. Anger for having not known more. Still Hastur would finish by proposing a solution. One where the man be forced into servitude again. To be bent into a bow and what was more was Hastur would have it be to him alone. However what sent Rippa into speech was the words said by the man. 'I will quell the nation of glass' as if it had become something even more twisted. As if he would go and finish what little was left. To that Rippa stepped forward. He approached Mitsuo calmly. His right hand reached up to softly and carefully touch the mans chin on the left side. Sighing as he did so before turning and standing between him and Hastur. Blue eyes met the more powerful mans gaze as he spoke calmly.

"Show me a hero...and I shall write you a tragedy. That is a quote from a man that knew the world in truth. Few pretend to know what a man such as Sarutobi Mitsuo has seen and been through. Fewer still know the truth of it. Lesser men would have given in so many years ago. I ask of you lord Raikage, even in light of recent events, please do not throw his name to the ground. A soldier lays their pride, their life and their honor out before you. I can not begin to imagine what brought on the destruction of Suna. However to have him chained to another again...I can not imagine it. This is a free man. I would acknowledge that and propose that the freedom be maintained. However that he do so on a parole. Excuse himself from the scenario at a combatant level. If he must atone for what has come let him do so by healing those who now have no home. He has been a Hero to Kirigakure, Konohagakure, Iwagakure and Sunagakure. In light of that history, I propose his freedom be allowed but monitored. You say you will quell a nation. A people scared and lost. Starving without home or protection. How is that the only solution? At what point do we become the infection we fight?"

2423

After eyeing up the host of the summit and dwelling in his thoughts, Harichimo would take a swig from the glass he was handed. It had a sweeter and more refined taste then the middle shelf stuff he was used to back in Iwagakure. The other Kage seemed to be tolerating his presence for now. His title of a Monolith seemed to carry him enough to stay. As he put his glass down he saw a hopefully friendly hand extend to him from who he assumed was the Hokage from stories Karumo had told him. Harichimo was more then happy to return the gesture and give him a small bow in return before things moved on. That was when the two cloaked and robed figures made their entrances to crash the summit.

Harichimo listened as one of the figures spoke in metaphors and riddles. At least that was what it seemed like to him. That was when Hastur seemed to have the answers and pointed the two out as the reason behind the Sunagakure destruction. Harichimo would just stand his ground as he looked over the two figures. What kind of power they must possess to just have destroyed a village with little regard of consequences. He claims to have done it for right righteous reasons, but how could any reason be right when it results in the upheaval of so many be they innocent or guilty of some crime. They didn't deserve what they had gotten because the transgressions of whoever this man thinks deserves it. What will the other Kage see fit to do with him?. Hastur has a point to try and keep the man under control of someone but would that really be an answer. Would this man really swear his life away? Harichimo would think to himself as the other Kage would come forth with their own solutions after Hastur brazenly gave his. To use Mitsuo as a tool to take control of the former village was not a message that Harichimo could completely stand behind.



First came the speech of the Hokage which seemed to carry on like a novel. To Harichimo he seemed to weave a story to try and sway everyone to believe the man had done what he had out of necessity and that he should be let go on the fact of being a hero. Harichimo had to search his mind for a bit to think of what he was talking about. This man that stood before them was just as much a regular person to anyone else from his point of view. This man voiced that he fought for justice and good morals and the Hokage seemed to either understand the man or had a bleeding heart for old war heros. That was when the Mizukage was given the floor. She seemed to speak the highest of Mitsuo. But she also spoke like any rational person. She seemed to be the wisest and most knowledgeable from what Harichimo could understand. Her solution seemed to be the harshest to put his man away for a long time perhaps eternity.



Harichimo would stare the man over once more as thoughts came to his mind of what to do with the man. Almost a month ago the herds of refugees showed up at the gates of Iwagakure asking for safe haven. Iwagakure has shown its colors to be more then hospitable with a majority of people allowing them to enter. But even Harichimo could see that the aid would soon become a strain. Without the words or leadership of the Tsuchikage no official decisions could be made on what to do. Harichimo and other high ranking members of society had taken it upon themselves to offer direction on how to deal with the new guests of the village. His words however would not be enough to rally officials to mount relief efforts to the nation. His title may hold the approval of the masses but it was just that a title when compared to the political power it would take to move the village into action. But Harichimo has an idea of how the village could start to pay its due.



"Now you three all make excellent points and suggestions. But it is obvious everyone has some sort of emotional or political interest of what happens to this man. He destroyed a whole village there is now denying that. And all for what to punish a few that you think deserved it? The Raikage vilifies you, the Hokage hails you a hero as does the Mizukage who still calls you friend. You remind of a very old friend. My sensei as a matter of fact Akira Kazako or maybe you might be old enough to know the name Tsuyo Hyuga. He single handily went after the criminal underworld of Iwagakure and ripped it apart. And to his credit, he did it in a way where only the people who deserved it were punished for their actions. I propose to the three Kage to let Iwagakure become this man's holding cell. Without the word of the Tsuchikage we cannot divert our resources from helping the refugees to a full scale relief effort. But with my backing we can arrange to keep this man locked within the nation's borders but still allow him the freedom as a reward for his past deeds. So until a new Tsuchikage is brought forth or Karumo returns to service this will keep Iwagakure's forces within that I can arrange command over and Mitsuo will be under constant surveillance."



934/1944

He had laid it all out on the line, the basis of his mission, and it appeared that at least one person agreed with him off the bat, though it wasn’t the person he expected. Hastur was an interesting case, it would seem, and Mitsuo was definitely intrigued. As he spoke his condemnation of Mitsuo’s actions, Mitsuo noticed he seemed to actually agree with him more than not. His proposed solution to the issue of having “someone like him running around” or whatever he had said in his fancier words, was to have the Sword Saint of Konoha join Kumogakure and go back and finish cleansing the sands.

The glass village he called it, eh nii-san? No more sand...

Mitsuo hated sand.

As Hastur concluded his speech he opened the floor to the rest to talk, and as Mitsuo stood on trial in front of a couple of people he respected, the first to step forward was the man whom Mitsuo had hand picked to leave the Village Hidden in the Leaves. Rippa seemed uncomfortable in this place, as though he was an average man among giants, but Mitsuo couldn’t disagree with that more. He had chosen him not for his physical prowess, nor his jutsu, but for his heart. When he stepped forward and came to the aid of a man whom the world saw as a villain, Mitsuo couldn’t have been more proud. Rippa Chi spoke his piece by starting with a quote, and then going on to defend Mitsuo and his actions. Mitsuo allowed a genuine smile to cross his face for the first time in a long time and as he listened to the words of Rippa, all he could think of was him when he was younger. This truly was the perfect man to run Konoha, and Mitsuo couldn’t think of anyone who could possibly do a better job, including himself. Being monitored would be no issue to Mitsuo, as he wouldn’t do anything that was truly wrong. He was the hero in this story after all…

The next to speak up, the one whom Mitsuo knew would have his back, did something that Mitsuo did not expect. Ayakashi Solstice looked hurt...but not just that. She looked angry. Her voice was full of fire as opposed to the cool headed tone Mitsuo was used too. She was an old friend, and one whom he had fought beside in the past. When she spoke, she mentioned his past deeds and praised him as a hero of her village, but that only led up to what would be the ultimate betrayal to Mitsuo. Eizo put a hand on Mitsuo’s shoulder as she spoke, her words stinging him like only one other could. He gritted his teeth as she spoke about how, should he go to kiri, he would be punished (and he assumed executed). He thought she would understand, but it seemed that instead she had decided that someone had to be painted the villain, and in this case it would be him. He had been executed before, and it hadn’t stuck, but he was sure if anyone would have more success with it, it would probably be Ayakashi. He pondered her words and prepared to speak when the ANBU from Iwagakure piped up and put in his two cents on the issue.

Mitsuo chuckled softly as this insignificant man spoke out at a collection of the most powerful people in the world. His words weren’t bad, and to be fair Mitsuo enjoyed his recap and how he spoke to Mitsuo, instead of about Mitsuo. That changed rather quickly, though, when he began to speak about a man whom he had no business even standing in the same room as. This man had made a grave error when he began to speak to Mitsuo about “Akira” or, as Mitsuo had always known him, Tsuyo Hyuga. He was Mitsuo’s brother, and Mitsuo knew him better than anyone. When he mentioned that Tsuyo had cleaned up the streets of Iwa and purged the crime by himself Mitsuo felt a wave of rage flash through him, immense heat beginning to radiate from his body as he would scowl and grit his teeth. Whatever the man had said after would be completely lost on Mitsuo, as it was clear that he knew nothing of what he spoke.

“You dare to utter the name Tsuyo Hyuga in my presence?” his voice was curt and there was none of the regular warmth that he would exude, instead replaced with ice and venom. “Allow me to educate you, child, on the man known as Tsuyo Hyuga. Back before you had learned to tie a headband he had a vision, one that would see the world change. He wanted to rid the world of crime, but he knew that there was no way he could do that alone. He began to bring in people who could help him achieve that goal, one of those people being the former head of Konohagakure ANBU and the Sword Saint of Konoha, Mitsuo Sarutobi...” Mitsuo paused for a second, bringing his heat level down a little bit at least. “Do you know why there is no thriving drug trade, and no slavers, in Iwa? Myself and Tsuyo marched into the sinners den and butchered the lot of them, drowned the floors in their disgusting misled blood. I gave every single one of those men and women a swift death, all except for one. Tsuyo wanted the last one, and with him we sent a message to the entire world that if you live a life of crime, Justice will come for you. The Aoi Bara stood, and still stands, for justice...Now sit your ass down and allow the adults to speak.”

He would look away from the man and focus on Ayakashi as Eizo would speak; “Lord Sarutobi, please. I warned you that not everyone would see things your way.” Mitsuo put a hand up to silence Eizo as he stared daggers at the Mizukage, a woman whom he greatly respected, but today whom he considered to be a fool.

“Ayakashi...You know me better than anyone here. You know exactly what I stand for, what kind of man I am. I was there when the village of Kirigakure was nearly burned to the ground again, and instead of allowing this to happen, I did all I could and put my life on hold in order to protect YOUR people. I saved countless lives in your village, including the lives of your clansmen Yuudai and Strafe. I refused to allow sin to seep into your village, and I cut the head from the beast to ensure it wouldn’t have a chance to take hold. Do you know what I did next? I discovered that my best friend since I had been a child, Ukiyo Senju, had been stealing the eyes from Uchiha across the continent. I saw the darkness of her heart and I cut that darkness out, ending the life of someone I loved because I will NOT tolerate corruption and sickness. I am trying to save the world, and you know full well that what I am doing is right. Sunagakure was run by a council of corrupt people, and had been infultrated by crime and sinners upon every level. I did what I have always done in the past, and removed the problem. It is always unfortunate when innocent lives are lost, but in this case the ends justified the means, and those lives were not lost in vane.”

He looked towards all of them, minus the delegate from Iwagakure, before speaking his next piece. “I am not a criminal, though it seems like each of you believe that I am. I am a hero to all shinobi across the land, and what I did, I did to protect everyone. I am a law abiding man, and if you want to imprison me, or execute me,” He shot another look towards the Mizukage, hurt and venom masked behind his fiery determination. “I will allow you to do so. I will walk to the block with my head held high because I know that I did the right thing. When I die, I will die a martyr, and the lands will rise up. My mission will be carried out by those who see the truth. Darkness clouds your vision, though, if you think that what I say is wrong. I am not a criminal, I am Mitsuo Sarutobi, the Sword Saint of Konoha, Seventeenth Hokage, Former Head of ANBU, Dragon of the Aoi Bara, Saviour of the Uchiha Clan, War Hero of Kirigakure, and so many other things. If you want my head you will be attempting to destroy justice and remove hope from the world, but you will fail in this endeavor.” He would go silent as Eizo shook his head. Mitsuo had lost his mind, but at least he was true to his word until the end...

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Rippa would listen quietly and politely as each of them spoke. His blue eyes shifting to watch each of them. Ayakashi in her mannerism and suggestive nature. How she suggested that she would be forced to punish him if he came to her. However he doubted the execution would take. It never did with Mitsuo the immortal. That aside the memories of her scandal with the kumo girl were still a freshly healed wound. How she had manipulated her allies into assisting her against kumo and its now fallen Kage. Naturally it would be a hesitant choice to trust her with this. Even if he wasn't against even faking the mans death. A hero deserved to be more than a martyr. While he didn't agree with the mans choice to destroy a village it had been done due to years of neglect on their own part as well. Corruption had run its course because good men had done nothing. His eyes shifted from her to Harichimo. The young man seemed to know little of the man in question. Instead he named another Konoha raised shinobi. Neglecting to mention how the man had tricked Iwagakure to do his work. Still Rippa would listen quietly. Such subtle tactics may have raised Iwagakure from a similar fate temporarily. However his own solution was to imprison the man within the borders of his nation. Rippa had to wonder to himself. Could Iwagakure pull that off? What kept him from turning the village of Iwa to burnt rubble as well?

The troubling thought that hit him next was what could Konoha do? He had to wonder if he was a good match against the ex hokage himself. There was no shame in wondering if you could take down your predecessor. Every accomplishment Rippa had made aside from his mastery in archery Mitsuo had been there first. If he really thought about it Rippa was the only hope in active duty that could be relied upon if Mitsuo turned on his birthplace. That was assuming that his partners did not assist him. Still venom dripping from the mans lips would snap those blue hues to Mitsuo. Already the air in the room was growing warm. An impressive chakra signature. Still Rippa would remain calm as much was revealed to him. So the two of them had formed a group. The Aoi Bara. Rippa knew little of it but it would certainly warrant an investigation. Perhaps he would ask Mitsuo more of it later. After all such a potent group could not be ignored. Still the monkey king would work to calm him. The man would continue to speak and defend his actions. Offering his head should they demand it with no resistance. Rattling off a list of impressive titles and how their act would be shameful if they did. Rippa would not disagree. He would not allow such a thing to occur. Still the temperature in the room was returning to normal.

Hastur would speak next. Warning them against insulting one another in his meeting. He certainly found himself in a position of power. Still it was true they were all refusing to relent to the same concept. The man addressed Rippa as his concerns about chaining the man were taken literally. Of course Hastur had no intentions of simply imprisoning him. Why hang up such a wonderful tool? That was perhaps his greatest concern about the man. People were like useful objects to him. Value based on their capabilities and actions. Rippa still held to the ideas of each person born with value. Life itself holding value. He would turn and walk to the edge of the room before overlooking the clouds below and the village beneath them. Allowing Hastur to finish speaking to each of them in turn. Still he made his offer to Mitsuo and Rippa would sigh audibly. Speaking himself once it was all done and said.

"And so the world burned for men with good intentions to rebuild it. A Utopia erected from the ashes of lives lost in the crossfire. How sad a thing it must be to have the weight of such a decision placed upon your shoulders. As sick as the world must be one cannot burn out the sickness without harming its surroundings. Even now innocent lives are suffering in Suna as we debate who controls the hand that put them there. Yes they are free from the corruption. However I doubt sincerely that is what they think of at night. They think of empty bellies, lost homes and family. Friends they do not know where they are or what became of them. As soon as this meeting is finished I will be sending a messenger back to Konoha to prepare as much aid as we can manage. Water and food as well as tents for shelter and blankets. Clothing and comfort. We will dispatch a division of med nin. Along with a division of sword priests to defend them and the supplies. This is my solution. If you wish to help with sending more aid I encourage it. As Hokage I will help rebuild Suna. Not because I seek an alliance or a move for power but because innocent people need me to. As for the issue of Sarutobi Mitsuo. Despite his good intentions this suffering is partially due to his actions. I can not simply look the other way. Perhaps it is best that someone capable of reasoning with his passions does stand before him. Hastur is rumored to have that power as is Ayakashi. However Ayakashi has already suggested she would have to follow the laws of her land. Mitsuo the choice is yours. If you wish to make a home in Kumo I will not deny you this. Lastly though, Lord Raikage. You mentioned the world being sick. Do not for one moment think I will allow troop movements across Konoha's borders. If you attempt to cleanse the sickness in my lands without an invite, you will find my less accommodating. So long as I can draw breath Konoha will not share Suna's fate. Am I clear my lord?"

His comment seemed to have struck a cord with Mitsuo as the man seemed to explode with his response. In his mind, Harichimo had one the first match in making him explode and show what he thought were the man's true colors as he gave his so called history lesson. The man's claim to be an equal to his sensei was no more then another lie Mitsuo was telling to try and make himself appear to be a saint like his many titles. In all the teachings Harichimo had been through Akira Kazako was a constant and this Mitsuo Sarutobi had nothing, not even a foot note. When Mitsuo had finished his rant directed towards him, Harichimo would give a small grin and grab his drink to sit on the arm of the chair designated to the head of Iwagakure. The man's ape guest seemed to have more sense then him as he tried to reason with him but just more anger and grasping at straws were what Harichimo saw. He would just sit and enjoy the drink as Mitsuo addressed the Kage in the room.

Next arose Hastur laughing at what was unfolding before him. A squabble of indecisive individuals on a big decision that had to be made Harichimo really had no say he was just the representative who tried to offer to take a trouble shinobi off their hands. Hastur continued on about bringing order to this lawless world and then it caught Harichimo's intentions as he revealed him hand. But the Hokage was first to chime in. He seemed to abandon the the thinking of bringing Mitsuo with him back to Konoha and shift to help the rebuilding of Sunagakure. Then trailing off with a threat of retaliation towards the Raikage.

Then the Mizukage's voice would raise in agreement with the Hokage's plan of cooperation to rebuild the now destroyed village. It made Harichimo smile a bit more when she would address Mitsuo and explain to him exactly what he had just explained to the man. But she spoke more artistic then he had put it. She seemed to lay into him the hardest as she drove home the points that Mitsuo would need to get into his head. When she was done speaking Harichimo would drink the last bit of his cup before giving his last couple of cents.

Once he got the last drops he would put the cup on the arm and clear his throat. "Well Mitsuo now that you have shown your hand the other three here can decide the best way to deal with you while you decide to which who you will swear your allegiance. Meanwhile in Iwagakure we have to deal with the civilians that you have left without home, leadership, and other basic essentials. I have stood there in the early mornings to help prepare food for the camps that line up almost back to the gates from the central courtyard. I have had to look in the eyes of family's broken apart, kids confused as to what happened, and others looking and trying to find where they can find rest. Without the commands of the Tsuchikage we cannot bring help outside the borders to help the rebuilding so we are full force on giving those within our gates above the bare minimum."

Harichimo would stand back up and begin to rub his chin before continuing his rambling. "speaking of the devil himself, the disappearance of the Tsuchikage lines up with the timeline of the destruction of the village. Now I wish you would swear loyalty to Iwagakure so that if we find evidence of the Tsuchikage being caught up in the destruction and falling then I could execute you myself in the courtyard. I was his best friend, brothers in arms, and even students to the same man that you claim was your brother in arms. Personally i call it an insult for you to claim to be my sensei's accomplice when I know he would call what you did an absolute atrocity. Karumo Sekuro of the Fantomusado was entrusted by Akira to lead us through good and bad times and now he is missing." His own words were enough to make his right arm tense up with an urge to destroy Mitsuo where he stood.

"Now make your decision while I address the lord Raikage. Hastur you claim to want to purge the world and bring us under a singular banner. I have had a couple close friends claim to be witnesses to your so called greeting. Some magic rods that call black lightning from the heavens. Was that supposed to be a threat and bring us in line? My friends did a favor saving your envoy from a bandit attack and now I will give you my own words as politely as possible and which are my own words not the words of whoever may come into power. Iwagakure stands as strong and proud as the mountains that surround it. And a mountain cannot stand when the rocks that form it crumble and fall from the common goal. We stand now to protect ourselves as well as those that now trust us to defend them from another tragedy. If there is word of troops making any sort of military advancement on Iwagakure I will be the first as Captain of the Monoliths to stand before you and feed you your own teeth. I am Harichimo Kazako, student to Akira Kazako the best taijutsu user in all the land. I was his pet project since day one. Not politically but in every other way I was groomed to be a spitting image. So maybe Mitsuo could fill you in one day on how my sensei is if his story held any merit. And that is all that the representative from Iwagakure has to say on the matters. Once Mitsuo makes the decision then we can move on to matters that are important to the present."

Finished with his piece he would walk up to Mitsuo within arms reach and stare at him. He could feel the tension return and the urge to punch this man was growing. "So what will it be? Will you run back to Konoha and live without a care? Will you answer for your crimes in a Kirigakure jail? Become a tool of the Raikage's will? Or will you come to Iwagakure and answer for yourself?" With those final words the tension became to much and with a snap reaction his right arm would come up for a jab trying to land square on the chin of Mitsuo.

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The Sword Saint of Konoha felt his rage building until he heard the man who seemed like a god of thunder begin to laugh, and suddenly it didn’t seem so bad anymore. He spoke of how everyone seemed to want the same thing and they were still fighting over it for no reason. After he spoke, however, things seemed to go fairly similarly. He spoke again about how he wished Mitsuo to join his village, and Rippa seemed to mirror the same sentiment, though his mirroring came with a threat aimed at the heart of the Raikage, and Mitsuo also assumed himself. He scowled as he looked towards Rippa, not sure why he felt the need to take such a stab at him. The Mizukage did nothing of the sort, though she seemed to still be sour and Mitsuo wasn’t happy about that. She spoke her piece about her village defending the weak or something along those lines, but also said that she had no issues with Hastur’s actions so long as he plays within her rules. Mitsuo was curious to see what those borders were and if Hastur would play within them. He had already made his mind up, as Hastur seemed to back him completely and appeared to be in a similar mindset as him, before he heard the insignificant dog begin to wag its tongue.

He attempted to weave a sob story about how much of a hero and a saint he was, trying to turn the council on Mitsuo. Mitsuo didn’t understand why this individual was such a shitty person, but he wasn’t having any of it. He rolled his eyes as the man flapped his gums, before his tone turned and he began to accuse Mitsuo of Regicide. It wasn’t the first time in his life that he was falsely accused of such a crime, and the first time he had literally hanged for the crime that he didn’t commit right here in this village, but he wasn’t going to have any of it this time. The heat emanating from Mitsuo was completely unbearable at this point, feeling like getting too close to a furnace if anyone stepped up to him. His anger burned with the passion of a thousand suns, each one of them seeming to burst forth from his skin as his rage burned hotter. The man began to speak about how Tsuyo was his best friend, and Mitsuo nearly lost it.

As he turned away from Mitsuo and back to Hastur, the Hellfire Drake had had entirely enough, Mitsuo not willing to take a single second more of this.

Do it.

His knuckles were white as he brought his hands together in front of his chest, the movement incredibly fast, as though he had done it a thousand times. The three hand signs that he had weaved would be impossible for the human eye to catch, save for maybe a couple of the people here.

They are all sinners...

He could feel the chakra building up inside of him, the raging winds screaming to be set forth as he gritted his teeth and shot his hands out to the side of his body, both palm out and fingers up as he looked up to the heavens. He doubted even Hastur would be prepared for this, but it mattered not.

They all deserve to die...KILL THEM ALL!

As his arms extended the chakra was released, a vacuum forming around the body of the Sword Saint of Konoha to protect him from what was about to happen. In less than the blink of an eye, all of the air within fourty meters of Mitsuo, which easily encompassed the entire assembly, was turned to razors, including the air within the bodies of the assembled. That razor wind would vibrate at an impossibly fast rate, reducing everyone gathered to a blood mist. He watched as Harichimo was torn to shreds, a satisfied smirk on his face. He saw Hastur brought low, not so divine now in this state. He watched as Ayakashi and Rippa were torn asunder, both of which were regrettable, but as an agent of justice it was Mitsuo’s divine right to ensure that they were removed from this world in order to bring about utopia. As the hot blood splashed across his face and body he knew that he had won, and that nothing stood in the way of bringing about the world that the people deserved. That was until something snapped him back to reality...

He felt it connect with his chin, the feeling of flesh and bone meeting flesh and bone as Mitsuo’s face moved off to the side, the sting of impact surprising him slightly. He looked towards where the punch had come from, wondering which of the kage had felt the need to strike him for whatever reason, but when he realized who it was a smirk spread across his face as he moved a hand up to grab Harichimo’s hand, pushing it down towards the side of Mitsuo’s body as he began to chuckle softly. “That was absolutely idiotic. You walk up to a man who is on trial for destroying a village, and is proven to be one of the strongest shinobi in the entire world, and you punch him in the face? Maybe you did learn something from Tsuyo...He was always just as brazen...” His chuckle grew to a laugh briefly before he stopped suddenly, and in a very serious tone he looked at the man. “Don’t let my reaction fool you, however. The next time you aim a strike at me, you had better kill me. Nobody gets more than one chance to kill the Sword Saint and lives to tell the tale.”

He would step away from the man who had walked towards him, cracking his jaw as he looked towards the three kage and shaking his head. “Now if everyone is done being children...I have made my decision. As it seems to be the consensus of the assembly, save for our foolish friend over here who clearly heard one too many of my brother’s tales of heroics and believed he could slay a dragon, I will pledge my services to the Raikage and to Kumogakure. Hearing each of your words, however, I have a few things I would like to say. Firstly I am a Konoha shinobi, and always will be. I have walked freely for many years, but as the seventeenth Hokage I have never had any interest in calling anywhere else home. I only do this because it seems to be the ‘punishment’” he would make the quotation marks in the air as he said this, illustrating his sarcasm. “that the world has chosen for me. I am not one to shy away from punishment, and I will therefore do my best. I am a defender of justice, and I will say this now. Rippa, Harichimo, you have both threatened the place that I live. Both of you threatened harm towards Hastur and the village of Kumogakure, and that is not something I will stand for. Remember what it was that brought us here on this day, remember the things that I have been accused of, because that is the man who stands beside the Kage whom you have threatened. I am a warrior, and while I do not seek out war, if it is brought to me I am the blade that will decisively end it.”

He knelt before the Raikage, summoning his Sword of the Immortal Blaze into his hands, and spoke “I pledge myself entirely to the village of Kumogakure and to you Lord Raikage. I will defend the members of this land, and I will continue to keep it a safe place. I will turn away all threats, and my blade will serve until you no longer have need of me, or until I have paid for my alleged crimes, whichever comes first...” With that he would stand, turning back to the rest of the assembled individuals, resealing away his sword before looking at Eizo, who would not and put a hand on Mitsuo’s shoulder. “This world is sick, friends, that I was not lying about. Make sure that you work towards bringing about the cure...whatever that may be...” and with those words, Eizo reverse summoned Mitsuo back to the Monkey Kingdom, away from the squabbles of men, and away from the congregations that sought to put him in chains...

{Exit Thread}

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Rippa would sigh and stare off into the rare scenery before him. This wasn't anything new he supposed. He had listened to people boast their powers before. Always with some sort of display or another. Tempers were bound to raise and someone to do something pointedly foolish. Of course if you put all the biggest pri...powers in one room it was bound to remain tense. Especially with the host acting like the others should bow before him or there was a threat of something else. His blue eyes shifted as each of them spoke in turn. Of course the first of them to actually physically strike another surprised him. Harichimo felt very passionately about the subject it seemed. Perhaps he was feeling like a mouse in a room filled with tigers. Some display of his prowess perhaps needed to level himself with them. A strike to Mitsuo's jaw was dealt and Mitsuo simply took it head on. The heat in the room building once more as Mitsuo reacted with some restraint. Giving the man the one blow before departing ways himself. The decision made it would seem. Still Harichimo was left in the center of the floor with his out burst.

Instead he would review in his mind Ayakashi's statements. She would stand against Hastur if this turned into some play for dominance and power it seemed. Helping out Suna with a military presence against their enemies supporting whatever aid Konoha brought back. It was certainly a good play of diplomacy that strengthened the bond between the two nations. However his attention was broken from that by the sudden surge of power from Hastur. The mans full intent on Harichimo as his chakra turned black and began to form into something horrendous. Rippa reacted quickly by raising his right hand as a wall of blood shot up from out of nothing between the two. However unless someone intervened it would not be enough to negate what happened. The mans dark energy blowing right through the defense and passed Harichimo's head only to remove a piece of mountain. Barely slowed by the wall of blood with a hole punched clean through it now. The blood wall crumbling and fading to mist and then nothing shortly after its failed attempt. Rippa would watch Hastur with concern in his blue eyes. Raiton was of course going to negate his blood to begin with but that level of difference. That level of technique should not have been brought forth over a small insult.

Rippa would pat Harichimo on the shoulder as if urging him to be on his way before stepping between the young man and Hastur even as the air still crackled with the mans power.The man would excuse himself and wish Ayakashi and himself well before he too was gone. To which Rippa let out a held breath and his shoulders slumped a little. against that kind of power he wasn't certain what was expected of him. Still for the time being only insinuations had come about. He needed to go about getting those orders started. To get forces moving and see how it all shifted. His life seemed like it could get complicated and quickly. He would glance to Ayakashi a moment before bowing his head to the remaining Kage. Looking passed her to the sight of the mountain with dust still rising from it. "Temper temper temper" Was all he would say before smiling and turning to walk to the edge of the empty floor overlooking the mountain ranges. Across his back blood wings appeared to form and with their crimson feathers spreading he would flap them once before stepping off the edge and letting his wings glide him back down. Time to relax in the clouds and think he supposed. Like a great eagle soaring above.

Exit thread

He felt fist connect with jaw in what should have been enough to make them even in the eyes of kage but in his soul Harichimo couldn't let that be equal to the evils this man had committed. Without thinking his left arm was going to deliver a blow that would have made any other shinobi quake. But in time Mitsuo had his hand in a grip and holding him back with almost no stuggle. Harichimo would just keep pouring more and more into it without even thinking as Mitsuo finally acknowledged his pressence. Once Harichimo could have his hand back it did he have some sort of measure of this man's strength. This man had some experience over him but Harichimo knew he could take him in a fight.It was then that Mitsuo made his choice to serve a sentence under the new Raikage Hastur. In his mind he knew that Mitsuo took the easy way out aligning himself with the other lunatic in Harichimo's eyes. Mitsuo continued to speak as if he was not on trial but on some sort of pedestal now that he was some sort of defender of justice in this land of lightning. Harichimo just shook his head thinking how he should have taken the risk to increase his strength and leave Mitsuo as a pile on the ground to be thrown off the edge of the mountain.

Next came the Raikage who seemed to be all of delighted to have his new toy and obedient solider. Hastur really seemed to be milking the dramatics and ceremony of the moment rather then treating Mitsuo as the criminal he was. Harichimo could feel his arm tense up again, this whole ordeal was giving him quite the temper like he had never felt before. But he had enough sense to know that laying a hand on the Raikage would be his death sentence. And it was what Hastur seemed to have in mind as he pulled another of those black rods to strike it right into the floor. Harichimo was ready for the same old trick to reveal itself but what spewed forward was unlike anything he had ever felt before. So much stronger then anything he had thrown his way. With his final words echoing like thunder in the room Hastur unleashed a storm onto him. When Hastur raised his show of force, Harichimo was hit by what he could only describe was a wall of pure force as he was pushed almost all the way out of the room and onto the edge of the stairs as he struggled to find any grip to catch himself. He only managed to get a grip at the very edge of the temple entrance when he looked up to see nothing but black coming to engulf his face. It was a moment where he had felt worry and terror for the first time, he had no time to usher forward any sort of defense or throw himself in direction of safety. Then time seemed to stop as he could feel nothing but cold overcome him. What the hell were you thinking you idiot? You know there is a reason Akira never brought you into the fold of grooming you to take his seat. Karumo never would have gotten into this situation. Akira taught you nothing but to fight and be a symbol people could stand behind as you fought for them. And look where that gets you. You decide to let your emotions carry your weight rather then your intelligence. You punch a man on trial for destroying an entire village not thinking of the consequences. Everyone that has relied on you this far and the village that rallies behind you, you have let down. How will the next Tsuchikage have you remembered then? As nothing more then a fool who punched first. The black seemed to block everything in his vision when a splash of red interfered and brought color to him for a second before disappearing back into black with a loud bang returning his vision to normal to see Hastur standing back turned to him and the Hokage helping him back to his feet.


Harichimo had no clue what he had done to earn the good graces of this single individual but it was a break from the scorn has he put a hand to his chest. His body hadn't even had the time to go into full fight or flight mode in the exchange. Harichimo would just breathe heavy as he felt some pats on his back from the Hokage. It was in his best interest to take the signal to leave. Harichimo would just bow to the Hokage and towards the Mizukage without saying a word and start the walk down the stairs. With every step his heart raced. He could see the damage that the Raikage's technique was capable of in the distance and seeing how close he was to death. Harichimo now knew he had been in the prescience of someone who was a real threat and would have been more then he could handle in a melee. Harichimo would look away from the damage and look over himself. With each step a new part of his being was checked until he looked to his left shoulder where a bit of blood stained the gold of the Monolith jacket. He brought up his hand to feel a small sting, he gingerly felt the opening of a decent cut across his cheek. He knew was lucky to have only escaped with just that and whatever the blanket of red was that broke the darkness for a split second played a role in his survival. He would activate a small portion of his healing chakra and begin to seal the wound as he thought of who or what it was that saved him.

It would only take a short bit to return to the Iwagakure camp where everyone was still looking towards the smoke and destruction of where the spear landed. Some people tried to come up to him for answers but he was not in the mood. Harichimo just gently pushed through the crowd to his tent where another ANBU was standing. "Send in a messenger within the hour, for now don't let anyone into my tent without my previous say so. I need to think some things over of how to proceed and bring news back to the village. For now the rest of you just return to what you were doing. It is still a time of celebration for those we have reunited and those who will be joining us for the trip back to Iwagakure." With that the people seemed to reluctantly go back to what they were doing as Harichimo entered his tent and reached for the closest bottle of alcohol he had been gifted and started to down it.

EXIT THREAD

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